Jack Smith Halts Trump Cases Ahead of Inauguration
Special Counsel Jack Smith paused criminal cases against President-elect Donald Trump, citing Justice Department policy against prosecuting a sitting president. Trump, accused of trying to overturn the 2020 election and mishandling classified documents, will avoid prosecution as his 2024 victory nears.
Smith filed motions on Monday to dismiss the election interference case in Washington, D.C., and the classified documents case in Florida. He argued that the Constitution requires these cases to end before Trump’s January inauguration. Smith emphasized the dismissals may not be “with prejudice,” allowing potential revival once Trump leaves office.
Trump Celebrates Dismissal, Criticizes Justice System
Judge Tanya Chutkan approved Smith’s motion, agreeing the cases could theoretically resume after Trump’s presidency. However, the decision ends current proceedings, removing immediate legal threats to Trump.
Trump condemned the prosecutions, calling them an example of “political weaponization” aimed at undermining his presidency. His spokesperson, Steven Cheung, described the dismissals as a victory for the rule of law and called for an end to divisive political investigations.
Smith confirmed Trump’s legal team supported the dismissals, ensuring compliance with constitutional standards and Justice Department precedent.